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A Journey of Art, Identity, and Healing
Justice Isaiah is not just an artist—he’s a a painter, poet, and spiritual healer – his journey has been shaped by loss, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to self-expression. From the streets of Elizabeth, New Jersey, to the vibrant artistic community of Puerto Vallarta, his life is a testament to survival and reinvention.
Through his art and poetry, Isaiah embraces what he calls Queer Resistance—a fearless declaration of identity and perseverance. But his work is more than self-expression; it’s a mission. Whether through his paintings, his words, or his spiritual guidance, he seeks to uplift others, helping them find healing and empowerment just as he did.
His path to Puerto Vallarta was anything but conventional. It was forged through pain, spiritual awakening, and an unrelenting desire to create. Now, in a city that welcomes both his artistry and his soul, he’s thriving—and inviting others to do the same.
From Tragedy to Creativity: A Young Artist’s Awakening
Born and raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Isaiah grew up in a diverse, working-class community. His childhood was happy until the age of six, when his father was murdered. The loss shattered his world, leaving a void that shaped much of his early life. His mother worked tirelessly to support the family, and though she provided for him, her absence left him longing for connection.
At twelve, Isaiah found an outlet in dance, a medium that helped him process his grief. By high school, he turned to visual art as well, channeling his emotions into his creations.
“Without art, I don’t know what I would have done with all of those unresolved feelings,” he says.
Isaiah always knew he was different—something he now celebrates.
“I was always super weird, but thankfully I was never bullied,” he recalls. His confidence showed early; for his high school prom, he was the only male student wearing a gown, a bold declaration of self-acceptance.
A Spiritual Turning Point
The COVID-19 pandemic brought another wave of loss for Isaiah. He lost nearly all his material possessions and felt as though he had hit rock bottom. But it was in this darkness that he found his greatest light.
While visiting his mother at the cancer center where she worked, he met Robert E. Lee, a Black Buddhist practitioner who became a mentor and friend.
“Brother Lee was the first man who didn’t ask anything of me,” Isaiah shares. “That made me trust him enough to share the joy of his religion.”
Isaiah’s spiritual journey deepened as he studied Nichiren Buddhism and explored other religious traditions. Eventually, he became an ordained minister with the Universal Life Church, allowing him to provide spiritual services such as baptisms, commitment ceremonies, and vow renewals—especially for those in the LGBTQ+ community who seek non-traditional, inclusive spaces.
Discovering Mexico and His Ancestry
In 2019, Isaiah moved to Brooklyn, immersing himself in a dynamic artistic scene. But despite his love for the city, he felt a strong pull toward his Latino heritage. His father was Puerto Rican, his mother Honduran, but it was the discovery of his Indigenous Mexican ancestry that sparked an even deeper connection.
Determined to explore his roots, Isaiah traveled to Mexico, showcasing his artwork in Oaxaca and León. However, it was Puerto Vallarta’s artistic energy and LGBTQ+-welcoming community that truly felt like home.
“I’ve created some of my best work here—paintings, poetry, healing, and even love-making,” he says with a laugh. His art and poetry, which he describes as Queer Resistance, reflect his experiences of being “othered.” “Sometimes it’s sexual, sometimes not, but perseverance is always at the core,” he explains.
When asked how his poetry and visual art intersect, Isaiah is thoughtful: “Poetry helps me name my feelings. Art gives them a face. They inform each other but live in different worlds.”
Building a Space for Healing and Connection
Beyond art and poetry, Isaiah envisions creating a holistic space that blends Indigenous wisdom with Buddhist teachings. His dream is to offer services that nurture both body and soul, including bone broth ceremonies, guided writing exercises, art therapy, and deep connection workshops.
“It’s about integrating mind, body, and spirit,” he says. Though still in development, the project promises to be a sanctuary for those seeking healing, self-expression, and community. Details on the location and opening date will be announced soon.
For now, Isaiah can often be found at Biblioteca Los Mangos, Puerto Vallarta’s beloved public library, where he enjoys reading and sharing his work. Those interested in his services or artwork can connect with him via WhatsApp at +1 908 377 9427. His poetry, published in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, as well as select paintings, are available for purchase online at Justice Isaiah’s Studio.
Embracing the Present and Looking Ahead
As our conversation comes to an end, Isaiah reflects on a truth he learned early in life: “This existence is short and finite—it’s all temporary.” But instead of letting that knowledge breed fear, he’s embraced it as a source of strength.
“Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, but you have the reins in your hands. No person or trauma can take that away from you,” he says.
With a serene smile, he offers a final thought—one that could very well be his mantra:
“There’s a whole world waiting to embrace you. Bravely receive that embrace and experience the joy of liberation and renewal.”
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
